Toyota says it will take until the end of the year before post-quake production levels return to normal.

The time frame was the longest so far announced by any Japanese automaker and reflects the severity and depth of the economic blow dealt by the massive disaster.

Meanwhile, in Detroit, American automakers pumped their fists in the air and sang out, “Finally! A break! We don’t have to compete as hard on quality and price!”

Toyota Sees Slow Return to Normal [NYT]

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